Planning a Wedding in 1 Year: Timelines & Checklist
Getting engaged is exhilarating! But let's be honest, planning a wedding can feel a little overwhelming. Take a deep breath and remember – you can create a beautiful, unforgettable wedding in just one year. Turning Stone Resort Casino has everything you need to streamline the process and make your wedding dreams a reality.
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| 12 Months Out | 2 Months Out |
| 6-8 Months Out | 1 Month Out |
| 4-6 Months Out | 3 Weeks Out |
| 3 Months Out | 1 Week Out |
Get Your 12-Month Wedding Planning Checklist
12 Months Before Your Wedding
Set a Budget:
A solid budget is the key to a stress-free planning experience. Include all the big-ticket items like your venue, catering, and any other must-haves. Remember, unexpected costs can pop up, so add a buffer to your budget for things like gratuities or cleaning fees. For luxurious touches that fit within your budget, consider the expert planners and beautiful settings Turning Stone offers.
Secure a Ceremony Time and Location:
When should you say 'I do'? Consider factors like the season you love, venue availability, and preferred days of the week (did you know Sunday weddings can save you money?).
The stunning wedding venues at Turning Stone Resort Casino are in high demand, so secure your chosen date and location early!
Celebrate Your Engagement:
Pop the champagne! Before diving into the details of wedding planning, take some time to relish this special moment! Enjoy a celebratory outing, plan a low-key gathering with close friends, or a special dinner with family. Just make sure those you invite are the same people you'll have on your wedding guest list.
Begin Researching Vendors:
If you have a wedding planner they can help you start looking for reliable vendors. Think about caterers, photographers, entertainment, florists, and videographers that align with your vision and budget.
Assemble Your Wedding Dream Team:
Book the vendors whose style matches yours! Don't forget all the fantastic entertainment possibilities Turning Stone provides – imagine your first dance in a ballroom followed by a lively reception with a casino afterparty!
Create a Wedding Folder or Binder:
Inspiration is everywhere! Start envisioning your wedding style by browsing magazines, wedding trends, websites, and Pinterest. Choose a color scheme and create a mood board to share with your vendors. It's the perfect way to ensure a cohesive look.
8-12 Months Before Your Wedding
Choose a Wedding Theme:
Get creative! Design a wedding theme that tells your unique love story. Brainstorm a fun hashtag your guests can use throughout the celebration. Turning Stone's diverse wedding venues offer endless possibilities – from rustic and charming to elegant and extravagant.
Decide on a Wedding Party:
Do you envision a traditional wedding party or a more relaxed approach? If you want bridesmaids and groomsmen, choose those special people who will offer support and celebrate with you. Ask them in a unique way or with a thoughtful gift!
Draft a Guest List:
Start by listing everyone you absolutely want to be part of your celebration. To help refine your guest list, consider your budget, the potential size of your venue, and the kind of atmosphere you want to create (intimate or grand).
Take Engagement Photos:
Capture the joy of this special time with beautiful engagement photos! These can be used for your wedding website, save-the-dates, or even as framed keepsakes.
Consider your ideal photoshoot location - a scenic outdoor location, a charming indoor setting, or a combination of both. This is also a great opportunity to practice posing in front of the camera and get comfortable with your photographer before the big day.
Select and Send Out 'Save the Date' Cards:
While formal wedding invitations typically come later, save-the-dates are a lovely way to give guests a heads-up and help them plan ahead, especially for out-of-town guests or those with busy schedules.
Include key details like the date and estimated time of your wedding, along with a location. You can also mention your wedding website (if you have one created already). Be sure to mention if you're reserving a room block at Turning Stone for out-of-town guests.
Try on Wedding Gowns, Dresses, or Suits:
Gather your most supportive friends and family, schedule those dress appointments, and embark on the thrilling search for your dream wedding attire! Don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try on a variety of silhouettes and styles.
This is your chance to see what flatters your figure most and discover which fabrics and embellishments make you feel truly special. Bring along your chosen ride-or-dies to help you laugh, offer honest feedback, and celebrate every 'yes' moment. And of course, pop a bottle of bubbly to toast this exciting milestone in your journey to wedded bliss!
Book an Officiant:
Choosing the right officiant is an important step in planning your wedding ceremony. You'll want someone who resonates with you and your partner on a personal level, and who can create a ceremony that reflects your values and beliefs.
Look for an officiant who is legally certified to perform weddings in your state. Many religious institutions have clergy on staff who can officiate weddings for members of their congregation. If you're looking for a non-religious ceremony, you can find qualified officiants through online directories or by contacting your local courthouse.
Create Your Gift Registry:
Make it easy for guests to find the perfect gifts to help you start your newly married life together. Choose a registry that offers a wide variety of options to suit different tastes and budgets.
Consider including items for your home, kitchen, experiences, or charitable donations.
6-8 Months Before Your Wedding
Connect with Your Wedding Services Manager:
Schedule your complimentary menu tasting and start sketching out your wedding day timeline. Work closely with your Wedding Services Manager to schedule events like the cake cutting and first dance, creating a smooth flow for your celebration.
Order Flowers:
Consult with talented floral designers to bring your wedding vision to life. Turning Stone's in-house floral designer is an excellent resource to help you create stunning arrangements that perfectly complement your theme.
Reserve Rentals and Decorations:
Consider all the elements you'll need to create your ideal ambiance. You'll likely need tables, chairs, and linens as a base. From there, think about the overall look and feel you want to achieve.
Do you envision romantic chandeliers or rustic lanterns for lighting? Are you drawn to elegant charger plates and luxurious fabrics, or do you prefer a more minimalist and natural aesthetic?
Turning Stone may have some rental options available in-house, or you can work with an external rental company to source everything you need. Consider a detailed list with quantities and communicate clearly with your rental providers to ensure the right items are delivered and set up on time.
Say Yes to the Dress! (Or Suit!)
This is such an exciting milestone in your wedding planning journey! After trying on different styles and exploring various boutiques, it's time for the big decision.
Choose the dress or suit that truly embodies your personal style, makes you feel confident and beautiful, and aligns perfectly with your wedding day vision.
Remember to factor in any necessary alterations and leave ample time for them to be completed. Don't forget to celebrate this momentous decision with your loved ones at TS Steakhouse.
Choose Wedding Party Attire:
Collaborate with your bridesmaids and groomsmen to find the perfect outfits that complement your wedding theme and make them feel amazing. Discuss your overall color scheme and ideas for the level of formality you envision.
Offer guidance on styles and silhouettes, but also encourage your bridal party to express their individual personalities and find outfits they genuinely love. Aim for a cohesive and celebratory look that reflects the joyful spirit of your wedding day.
Begin Planning Your Honeymoon:
Start dreaming of your post-wedding getaway! Will you relax on a tropical beach or explore a new city together? If international travel is on the agenda, double-check that your passports are up-to-date.
Arrange Transportation:
Ensure seamless transportation for both yourself and your guests on your wedding day.
Turning Stone offers a variety of transportation options to make your wedding day logistics a breeze. Discuss your needs with your Wedding Services Manager to find the perfect fit.
Fill Any Special Roles:
In addition to your main wedding party, think about the other important people you'd like to include in your ceremony. Consider asking close friends or family members to act as ushers, helping to guide guests to their seats.
Decide if you want to have a flower girl scattering petals down the aisle or a ring bearer carrying your rings. Choose individuals who are special to you and would be honored to play these meaningful roles on your wedding day.
Turning Stone Decor Setup Information:
Turning Stone will gladly set up simple décor items like place cards (which must arrive alphabetized), favors, your cake knife and server, toasting flutes, and guest book.
For more complex setups, such as draping, elaborate centerpieces, a candy bar, or transporting items between multiple locations, please consider using a third-party vendor or be aware that additional setup fees may apply.
4-6 Months Before Your Wedding
Order Wedding Invitations:
It's time to find the perfect invitations that reflect your wedding style and set the tone for your special day! Consider factors like theme, color scheme, formality level, and the overall vibe you want to convey.
Research different stationery providers to find designs that speak to you, and personalize your invitations with all the essential details: date, time, location (with clear directions to Turning Stone), dress code, RSVP instructions, and your wedding website address. For additional guidance check out our Wedding Invitations Timeline.
Purchase Wedding Bands:
Select the rings that symbolize your enduring love and commitment. Browse different styles, metals, and design options to find the perfect fit for you and your partner.
Don't forget to allow plenty of time for any necessary resizing or engraving, as these customizations can add a few extra weeks to the process.
Book Rehearsal Dinner and Morning-After Brunch:
Extend the celebration of your marriage by planning a memorable rehearsal dinner and a relaxed post-wedding brunch. Turning Stone restaurants offers a wonderful array of options to suit different tastes and group sizes.
Create a seamless and delicious weekend experience for you and your loved ones, where everyone can gather to celebrate before and after the big day. You may even want to consider customized invitations for your rehearsal dinner to add a special touch.
Choose a Guest List for Your Wedding Shower:
If you're planning a bridal shower, assist your host with the preparations by providing them with a thoughtful guest list.
Include close friends, family members, and any other important people you'd love to celebrate with during this pre-wedding event.
Book a Stylist:
Schedule a hair and makeup stylist to make you feel radiant on your big day. Feeling confident and beautiful as you walk down the aisle is essential.
Consider the luxurious services offered at Turning Stone Spa for a truly pampering experience.
3 Months Before Your Wedding
Attend Your Wedding Shower:
Savor this special occasion as your friends and family shower you with love, laughter, and well wishes! Enjoy the games, gifts, and the outpouring of support as the excitement builds for your upcoming wedding day.
Order Wedding Favors and Amenity Baskets:
Express your gratitude to your guests with thoughtful wedding favors that reflect your style and the theme of your special day. Choose keepsakes they'll use and appreciate, or opt for delicious treats they can enjoy on the spot.
For out-of-town guests, consider creating personalized welcome bags filled with local goodies, snacks, and practical items to make their stay at Turning Stone extra comfortable and memorable.
Choose Who Will Be Giving a Toast:
Think about the special people in your life whom you'd love to hear speak at your reception. Select those who know you well, have a knack for storytelling, and can offer heartfelt sentiments or humorous anecdotes that will resonate with you, your partner, and your guests.
Give them plenty of notice so they can prepare their speeches and feel confident delivering them on your big day.
Purchase the Minor Details:
Don't forget those small but important touches that complete the picture of your wedding celebration.
This might include your ring bearer pillow, stylish toasting flutes for the champagne toast, your guest book, a cake knife and server, and any other festive decorations you want to include.
Make Reservations:
Confirm reservations for yourself, your wedding party, and any guests with special needs to ensure everything is in place.
This could include reservations at restaurants for group outings, spa services, or any other activities you've planned as part of your wedding festivities.
Finalize Details:
Meet with your Wedding Services Manager to iron out all the final decisions about your menu, ceremony, and reception details.
2 Months Before Your Wedding
Purchase Thank You Gifts:
Express your gratitude to those who have made your wedding journey extra special. Choose thoughtful gifts that show your bridesmaids, groomsmen, parents, and any other key helpers how much you appreciate their love and support.
Bridesmaids might enjoy jewelry with their initials, cozy robes, or gift certificates to their favorite spa. Groomsmen could appreciate engraved flasks, custom cufflinks, or gift baskets filled with their favorite snacks and drinks. Parents might love framed photos from your engagement shoot.
Meet with Your Officiant:
Finalize the details and flow of your wedding ceremony during this meeting. Discuss readings, personal vows (if you plan to write them), and any other special requests you have to make your ceremony uniquely yours.
Get a Gift for Your Fiance
Surprise your soon-to-be spouse with a heartfelt gift that expresses your love, excitement, and commitment. Choose something personal and meaningful, whether it's a sentimental piece of jewelry, a unique experience you can share, or even a handwritten love letter.
Touch Base with Your Stylist:
PReconnect with your hair and makeup stylist to confirm your wedding day look. Discuss any potential adjustments to your initial ideas and finalize any products or accessories needed to achieve your desired style.
If you haven't done so already, schedule a trial run, especially if you're considering a more elaborate hairstyle or intricate makeup look.
Mail Your Invitations:
It's time to share the exciting news and officially invite your loved ones to your wedding celebration! Aim to mail your invitations around six to eight weeks before your wedding date.
Set an RSVP deadline approximately three weeks before the big day, allowing enough time to finalize your seating plan and headcount for catering.
Meet with Your Entertainment:
If you've booked a DJ or a live band, discuss your music preferences, must-play songs, and those to avoid, to create the perfect ambiance for your celebration.
Give Your Photographer and Videographer a Shot List:
Provide your photographer and videographer with a detailed shot list, ensuring they capture all your must-have photos and videos of those precious wedding memories.
Include must-have photos of you and your partner, family portraits, candid moments, and any specific detail shots you want them to focus on.
Plan for Bachelor/Bachelorette and Post-Wedding Parties
Extend the excitement and memories of your wedding weekend! Explore the vibrant nightlife venues at Exit 33 within Turning Stone Resort Casino for a thrilling bachelor or bachelorette experience.
1 Month Before Your Wedding
Apply for a Marriage License:
Secure this essential document! Research the specific requirements in your state or county, as application deadlines, necessary documentation, and fees can vary.
It's a good idea to obtain a few extra copies of your marriage license in case one gets lost or needs to be submitted for name changes later on.
Write Your Vows:
If you plan to exchange personalized vows during your ceremony, carve out some quiet time to reflect and put your heartfelt feelings into words. Consider sharing your vows with each other privately before the ceremony for an intimate moment, or keep them a surprise until you're standing at the altar.
Practice your vows aloud several times in the weeks before the wedding to ensure you feel confident and comfortable expressing them in front of your loved ones.
Send Rehearsal Dinner Invitations:
Ensure everyone involved in your rehearsal is informed with clear details about the timing and location of this pre-wedding event. Remember to include those taking part in the ceremony, your immediate family, and your wedding party.
You can opt for traditional mailed invitations or send out digital invitations for a modern touch.
Organize RSVPs:
As your RSVP deadline approaches, compile your final guest list. Create a spreadsheet to track names, meal preferences, any special dietary restrictions, and any seating arrangements or grouping requests that guests might have.
Begin Writing Thank You Notes:
Get a jumpstart on expressing your gratitude by writing thank-you notes for any gifts you've already received. Personalized notes are always appreciated, and tackling a few at a time will make this task feel much less daunting in the weeks following your wedding.
Send Preliminary Guest Count:
Provide your Wedding Services Manager with an estimated headcount. Though your final numbers might fluctuate slightly, knowing an approximate guest count will help with detailed logistical planning, such as finalizing catering needs and seating arrangements.
3 Weeks Before Your Wedding
Send Guaranteed Guest Count and Dietary Restrictions:
Finalize your guest numbers and any special dietary needs and send this information to your Wedding Services Manager.
Finalize Your Seating Chart and Review Final RSVP List:
Follow up with any guests who haven't RSVP'd. Make sure your seating chart is polished and send it to your Wedding Services Manager, noting guests under 21 and those with dietary restrictions.
Attend a Final Fitting:
Schedule a final fitting to ensure your wedding attire fits perfectly and feels comfortable. Bring along any undergarments, shoes, and accessories you plan to wear to ensure everything works together flawlessly.
Any minor adjustments can be made with enough time before the big day.
Pre-pack for Your Honeymoon:
Get ahead of the last-minute packing stress by packing your honeymoon suitcase now. Gather all your clothes, toiletries, and essential travel items.
Make sure your passport is valid and safely tucked away with any other necessary documentation.
Send Final Timeline to Your Wedding Party:
Distribute a detailed timeline to your bridesmaids, groomsmen, and other key members of your wedding party.
Include important timings for getting ready, photo sessions, the ceremony start time, transportation information, reception events, and anything else they need to know to ensure the day flows smoothly.
1 Week Before Your Wedding
Schedule Your Final Meeting with Your Wedding Services Manager:
This is where you'll go over all the essential details for the last time and bring in your wedding decor items.
Double-check the flow of events, meal choices, arrival times for vendors, and any other important notes to ensure everyone is on the same page.
Final Payments:
Take care of any outstanding balances with your venue, catering service, vendors for your decor, entertainment, or transportation. Having this done ahead of time will give you one less thing to worry about on your wedding day.
Finalize Your Vows:
Give your vows one last read-through and make any final adjustments you feel are necessary. Practice reciting them aloud a few more times so that you feel completely confident and comfortable expressing your love and commitment in front of your guests.
Get Any Beauty Treatments You Need:
Schedule those last-minute beauty appointments to feel your absolute best on your wedding day. This might include a haircut, color touch-ups, a manicure and pedicure, or any other spa treatments you desire.
Consider exploring Turning Stone Spa's luxurious hair, nail, and makeup treatments for brides.
Determine Special Day-of Roles:
Enlist trusted friends or family members to assist with minor but essential wedding day tasks. Delegating some responsibilities to a reliable support system will relieve some stress and allow you to focus on enjoying every moment of your celebration.
Say 'I Do' to Your Perfect Wedding in One Year
Your wedding day should be a beautiful reflection of your love story. Planning that perfect celebration within a year is entirely possible! By following this timeline and working with dedicated professionals, you can minimize stress and maximize joy.
Let Turning Stone Resort Casino be your partner in this incredible journey. With our experienced Wedding Services Managers, breathtaking wedding venues, and luxurious amenities, we're committed to making your wedding dreams come true. Contact us today to start envisioning your unforgettable celebration at Turning Stone.
